Our fantastic leadership team
ADVANCE was founded in 2010 and since then has enjoyed consecutive years of steady growth. Over the last six years, we have invested heavily in our infrastructure, security and systems automation.
We support UK-based contractors and freelancers and the recruitment businesses that find them work. In a nutshell, we aim to make life simpler for professionals who choose to work on a contract / temporary basis. Our Chairman, Shaun has helped to forge a positive culture based on our core values of world-class service, passion, respect and team-work. Here's a little bit about who he is, but if you'd like to find out more about his experience and vision for ADVANCE, he would be delighted to hear from you.
Shaun Critchley, Chairman
A qualified solicitor, Shaun has advised many of the UK’s leading recruitment firms and industry bodies on changes in legislation and other legal and compliance matters.
He has more than a decade of experience in the contractor and freelancer services sector and maintains excellent working relationships with the industry’s most respected legal and technical advisors.
His areas of expertise include IR35, self-employment, the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and supervision, direction or control (SDC).
Kelly Payton, Head of Operations
Having joined ADVANCE back in 2014, Kelly started out as a Payroll Officer and has risen through the ranks. Having previously worked in recruitment, Kelly holds extensive knowledge of the industry from both a recruiters and an umbrella's perspective.
Now with over 11 years experience, Kelly has lead the way to ADVANCE's operational transformation over the years, by supporting with the introduction of new technology, securing both our FCSA accreditation and SafeRec certification, as well as spearheading new operational processes that have lead to ADVANCE's unrivalled payroll and compliance service, and supported our award-winning customer service, widely recognised as the best in the industry.
Kelly's areas of expertise include, Payroll, Customer Service, Compliance and Operational Transformation and Innovation. Want to find out more, connect with Kelly.
Maryjane Mercer, Group Financial Controller
Joining ADVANCE in June 2023, Maryjane has spearheaded financial transformation, ensuring stability and profitability for the business, as it looks to invest in growth.
With over 25 years financial experience, Maryjane brings with her a plethora of knowledge, experience and expertise. Now leading both the Financial team and the Accounting team, Maryjane offers hands-on leadership to ensure a robust control framework across all areas of the group.
Maryjane's expertise include: Leadership and Management, Internal Controls, Regulatory Compliance, Accounting and Financial Reporting to name a few. Want to learn more, speak to Maryjane
Matt Houchard, Head of Sales
Having joined ADVANCE back in October 2025, Matt brings with him over 25 years of sales experience, across a handful of different industries. Excelling in building lasting relationships, driving commercial growth, and building incredible teams.
Matt firmly believes in encouraging his team, to help drive both their development and performance. Leading by example, Matt regularly goes out in the field to cultivate new business, support his team and drive sales performance.
Matt's expertise includes; Sales growth, Commercial Strategy, and Relationship Management. Want to find out more, connect with Matt and get in touch today.
Ross Gylanders, Head of Marketing
Joining ADVANCE back in October 2025, Ross offers over 12 years experience in Marketing, Digital Marketing and Ecommerce, having worked in-house across a variety of industries, Ross offers a wide skill set across the full marketing mix.
A member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing since 2018. Ross looks to utilise data-driven insights, and consumer behaviour to formulate strategies and leverage growth, by driving brand awareness, lead generation and online visibility.
Ross's expertise includes: Marketing Strategy, Brand development, and Digital Marketing. Want to find out more, connect with Ross.